The Stress-Free Session Prep Guide
We all know the "photo day" feeling. You want those beautiful prints for your walls, but the thought of getting everyone there without a meltdown? That’s the hard part.
I live for the chaos! But I want you to feel relaxed so we can capture something great. Here is your "Cheat Sheet Prep Guide" for a smooth, fun session.
1. The Night Before: Pack and Prep
Don’t wait until the morning of the shoot.
Get your day bag situated and ready to go. It should be ready to grab and load.
Write a physical list (not a mental one) of everything that needs to be put in that bag in the morning (you probably don’t want baby’s milk overnighting there, for example)
Lay out every single piece of clothing. No one wants to hunt for a missing sock ten minutes before leaving.
2. Have "The Chat" with Your Partner
If you have that special sort of partner, sit down with them the night before. Remind them that this is about having fun, not being perfect.
There is no shame in a reward system! An “All Football, No Obligations Sunday” or “Go Catch a Movie on Tuesday” trade for their best effort at the session can go a long way. Happy parents (especially the reluctant ones) make for happy photos.
3. The "After Party" Plan
Right before you leave the house, have a quick family huddle.
Tell the kids, "If everyone does their best and has fun, we are going to [Ice Cream/The Park/Pizza] right after!"
Frame the session as the "warm-up" and the treat as the "after party." Remind them one more time before they unbuckle their seatbelts at the session.
4. Full Bellies = Big Smiles
This is the most important rule: Feed everyone right before you leave. A "hangry" toddler (or partner!) is a tough model.
A quick snack ensures everyone has the energy to play, run, and jump while I capture those candid moments you’ll love.
My Promise to You
I’m going to go with the flow. If the kids are wild, let them be wild! That’s where the magic happens. Your family is wonderful exactly as you are.
I’ll handle the "seeing" and the storytelling. You just worry about the ice cream after!
